A medical office assistant is an administrative professional responsible for providing day-to-day support in a medical front office. Responsibilities include scheduling appointments, greeting patients and collecting the necessary information, processing insurance claims, arranging referrals, maintaining supply inventory, and managing medical records while protecting patient health information.

The medical office support curriculum reflects a blend of specialized training and practical knowledge. The student is introduced to medical practice management software designed to streamline and automate administrative tasks in a healthcare setting. Other key components include medical terminology, medical law and ethics, and professional communication skills. Successful completion qualifies the student to take the National Certified Medical Office Assistant examination for industry-recognized certification.

This certificate provides a smooth path to the medical assistant program for the student wishing to move along a career ladder and earn multiple credentials by completing programs that have overlapping requirements.

Program Requirements

Total Credit Hours: 12

The Medical Assistant Certificate Program is designed to prepare the student to work as an essential member of the healthcare team in an outpatient setting. Duties vary depending upon the type of organization and state laws.

Medical assistants perform a combination of clinical procedures and administrative duties while working alongside physicians and other licensed health professionals. The student develops specialized knowledge and skills through classroom instruction and hands-on activities in the campus lab, as well as gaining practical experience providing direct patient care in a clinical environment under the supervision of a preceptor.

The program consists of 33 career-related credits that can be completed in two semesters. Completion of the program qualifies the student to test for industry-recognized certifications, including National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA) and National Certified Phlebotomy Technician (NCPT). Additionally, the student will earn Basic Life Support Certification through the American Heart Association.

Program Requirements

General Education Requirements

Total Credit Hours: 33

Apprenticeship is an industry-driven career pathway whereby employers can recruit and develop a highly skilled workforce while providing on-the-job learning experiences for apprentices. The apprentice can advance their career and increase their long-term earning potential, while meeting the growing demand for certified healthcare workers.

The Medical Assistant Apprenticeship Program is a collaboration between Central Wyoming College and the U.S. Department of Labor. Enrolled apprentices complete 20 college credits of career-related online coursework while gaining 2000 hours of employment at a registered healthcare facility providing direct patient care under the guidance of an experienced on-site mentor. The employer is responsible for evaluating technical skills and competencies and maintaining clinical progress records. The online classroom format offers convenience and flexibility, allowing the apprentice to balance work and education. Completion of the program qualifies the apprentice to test for industry certification as a National Certified Medical Assistant (NCMA).

The apprentice must be 18-years of age or older, have a high school diploma or the equivalent, and be continuously employed by a registered apprenticeship sponsor.

Program Requirements

Total Credit Hours: 20